Some of the most exciting innovation that happens each year has been taking place in the cordless tools category. It seems we can hardly go a few months without a new class of tool showing up that’s never been cordless before. Other times, an unusually effective cordless model gets introduced. Once in a while, a new cordless product even exceeds the performance of comparable corded tools. There’s no doubt that the cordless revolution has been ignited thanks to lithium-ion battery technology, and it just keeps getting better. Here are your 2016 Pro Tool Innovation Cordless Tool Awards!
Winner – Lithium-ion Batteries
DeWalt DCB606 6.0 Ah FLEXVOLT Battery
What they said: What makes these two FLEXVOLT batteries extremely innovative are their patent-pending technology that is backwards compatible with most existing DEWALT 20V MAX* tools and chargers. The key to this technology is the ability of the FLEXVOLT batteries to switch between DEWALT tools of varying voltages (20V MAX*, 60V MAX* and 120V MAX*). The FLEXVOLT batteries automatically change voltage depending on whether they’re being used in a 20V MAX* or 60V MAX* tool. Two FLEXVOLT batteries (of same amp hour) together power the new DEWALT 120V MAX* tools. This means that high power tool applications that previously could only be accomplished by corded tools, can now be performed with the DEWALT FLEXVOLT system of cordless tools. As a result of this advanced battery technology, jobsites can now fully transition from corded to the freedom of cordless.
What we say: In the weeks leading up to the 2016 DeWalt Experience, we heard rumors of what FlexVolt was going to be. What we didn’t know at the time was that the battery technology would be wired for both parallel and series connections. We also couldn’t have guessed that it would automatically detect which platform it needed to run on. Obviously, this is a massive achievement, and while the first tools are still being tested, the potential for construction job site applications seems nearly endless. Be on the lookout for more on this FLEXible battery platform.
Price: $149.00
For more information, click here.
Winner – Battery Chargers
Milwaukee M18 & M12 Rapid Charge Station
What they said: With the rapid expansion of the M18 and M12 systems, there is a growing demand to not only charge both platforms, but do so faster and more productively. Whether the Rapid Charge Station is used by a single person or large crew, they can have confidence it will turn packs around at an accelerated pace-minimizing downtime and increasing productivity on the jobsite.
What we say: Milwaukee may very well be the leader for cordless tool users that take advantage of both the 18V and 12V platforms within one brand. Lots of Pros happen to use both 18V and 12V tools, so the ability to take advantage of a multi-port, multi-voltage fast charger is a huge advantage. With Rapid Charge technology, Milwaukee drops the charge time from roughly an hour on their XC battery to just 37 minutes. You also get simultaneous charging on three batteries at once (with three 18V and three 12V slots available). That’s an advantage over the one-at-a-time performance of their M18 Six Pack Sequential Charger. To extend your functionality even further, Milwaukee also added a pass through power plug so you don’t limit access to the outlet you plug into.
Price: $169.00
For more information, click here.
Winner – Battery Powered Generators
DeWalt DCB1800 1800 Watt Portable Power Station
What they said: The new 1800 Watt Portable Power Station (DCB1800) from DEWALT allows for AC power in remote locations for convenient portable power. Able to run most corded tools, it provides 1800 Watts (15 amps) continuous power and 3600 Watts peak power. The DCB1800 runs on four DEWALT 20V MAX* batteries. Not only can the 1800 Watt Portable Power Station power a corded tool remotely, but it also becomes a multi-port parallel charger for up to four DEWALT 20V MAX* Batteries when plugged into a wall outlet via extension cord. Compact and lightweight, the 1800 Watt Portable Power Station weighs just 18lbs (without batteries) and is easily portable. Without the need for gas to run, there are no fumes or carbon monoxide emitted from the device. In addition, the 1800 Watt Portable Power Station can be used to provide temporary power in areas where noise is restricted such as a jobsite with strict regulations or even camping and tailgating. With an integrated temperature-controlled cooling fan and heavy-duty roll cage, the Portable Power Station is a durable and convenient power solution for a variety of uses.
What we say: Battery powered generators have been hanging around on the fringes with the prepper crowd for a while now. Only recently have they started getting some jobsite attention. Rather than going with the traditional idea of having one large battery which powers an inverter, DeWalt decided to use four. That means you can use the batteries you already own as a power source for corded tools in a pinch. With 1,800 continuous watts and 3,600 peak watts, you’ll be able to run a nice variety of corded tools when you’re away from a power source. Of course, you also get the benefits of no gas and oil to mix, virtually no noise, and no emissions to worry about. Compared to gas generators, a battery powered solution brings with it a lot of possibilities. DeWalt also wired the DCB1800 as a charger for when you do happen to be near power and want to top off your packs.
Price: $599
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Angle Grinders
Metabo WPB 36 LTX BL 230 36V 9″ Brushless Grinder with Brake and Paddle
What they said: The LiHD (Lithium High Density) revolution continues! With a new 36V platform and 6.2Ah runtime, the new 36V brushless grinder can drive a 9″ wheel the same way a corded tool would! The new LiHD battery pack delivers 2,400W of power, equivalent up to 21Amps of corded power. For the first time, a battery pack can drive a 9″ grinder with as much power (if not more!) as a corded tool. Made in Germany, this brushless tool features a safety brake, stopping any accessory in under 3 seconds, a paddle switch, and a rotatable body to always be in the most comfortable position.
What we say: There are tools that make you stop dead in your tracks and stare. Metabo has done that in a year where we’ve had a lot to stop and stare at. But they’ve taken it to another level completely. Pulling 21-amp corded power out of a battery is beyond game-changing, it’s likely to create an entirely new class of cordless tools we’ve never seen before. The first example is Metabo’s new cordless grinder. The WPB 36 LTX BL 230 is a 9-inch cordless grinder! With features we like, including a brake, paddle switch, and rotating body, Metabo has just told the rest of the industry to try again!
Price: $1,199.00
For more information, click here.
Finalist
Winner – 12V Drill/Drivers
FD07R1 12V CXT Li-Ion Brushless Driver-Drill
What they said: The Makita 12V max CXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 3/8″ Driver-Drill Kit delivers power and speed in an ultra-compact size for efficient drilling, driving and fastening. With Makita 12V max CXT Lithium-Ion slide-style batteries, users get superior balance and ergonomics over pod-style batteries. For added convenience the batteries include an on-board L.E.D. charge level indicator.
The FD07R1 weighs only 2.3 lbs. (with 2.0Ah battery), and delivers 280 in.lbs. of Max Torque. It’s an ideal solution for users seeking a more compact driver-drill with less weight and for applications in tight spaces.
For longer run time, 12V max CXT cordless tools are also compatible with the 12V max CXT Lithium-Ion 4.0Ah battery (BL1041B). 12V max CXT Lithium-Ion batteries are engineered with a Battery Protection Circuit that protects against overloading, over-discharging and over-heating. It’s part of the expanding 12V max CXT series, combining performance with superior ergonomics in a compact size.
What we say: There are tools you like the moment you first pick them up, and the Makita FD07R1 brushless drill is definitely one of them. When Pro Tool Reviews put it up against the rest in their 12V drill shootout, it emerged as the best combination of power, efficiency, ergonomics, and compactness. If this is where the entire Makita 12V max CXT line is headed, they have a shot at dominating the 12-volt class!
Price: $159.99
For more information, click here.
Winner – 18V Drill/Drivers
Metabo SB 18 LTX BL I 18V Brushless Hammer Drill/Driver (1300 in-lbs)
What they said: This new brushless hammer drill/driver features our new Made in Germany brushless motor, directly inspired by our industry leading brushless angle grinder. It has the most torque available today, featuring 1,300in.lbs of peak torque (531 in.lbs of soft torque).
Like its predecessor, the SB 18 LTX BL I features 11 electronic torque settings plus the “Impuls” mode, essential to take out stripped screws or to drill in sensitive material. It is fully compatible with all Metabo 18V Ultra-M batteries, including the latest LiHD (Lithium High-Density) batteries. This tool comes as a kit with 2x 5.2Ah batteries or as bare tool. It also exists as a simple Drill/Driver BS 18 LTX BL I.
What we say: Metabo has quietly been developing their cordless tools over the past year as other brands have loudly heralded their successes. With Metabo about to bust open the doors on what they’ve been working on, even manufacturers of high powered cordless tools are likely going to have to step back in awe. This time, Metabo has pushed past cordless drills with the highest torque to reach 1,300 inch pounds—a number previously only seen in impact drivers and wrenches. Metabo got there thanks to their LiHD battery technology and a new brushless motor they’ve been working on. Look out world, Metabo is about to break this wide open!
Price: $299.00
For more information, click here.
Finalists
Winner – Specialty Cordless Drill/Drivers
Milwaukee M18 FUEL Drilling & Fastening with One-Key
What they said: This is an exciting time in power tool history. Our M18 FUEL drills and impacts are the most powerful on the market. Because these tools feature a combination of the smartest electronics available, brushless motors and advanced lithium-ion batteries, their power and versatility make them perfect for an incredibly wide variety of applications. With all this power at their fingertips, our users want to be able to harness the performance and customize it for their specific needs. With ONE-KEY we’re giving our users the ability to take full advantage of the sophisticated electronics in our M18 FUEL tools so they can communicate with them in ways never before possible and tailor their tool to how they work.
What we say: A lot has been written and said about the Milwaukee One-Key system, and users are getting a handle on what’s possible with a customizable system like this. By going beyond simple preset speed/torque modes, users can dial in the most efficient specs for each job they’re doing while at the same time extending the life of their accessories. As the technology continues to develop, tool tracking and theft recovery is also becoming a much more real possibility as the smartest tools we’ve ever seen make their way onto jobsites.
Price: $329.00
For more information, click here.
Finalist
- Metabo GB 18 LTX BL Q I 18V Tapping Tool / Drill Driver
Winner – Cordless Drywall Screw Guns
Festool DWC 18-4500 Drywall Gun
What they said: Hanging drywall is serious work and requires a serious drywall gun. Introducing the most refined and capable drywall gun yet-the DWC 18. Equipped with magazine attachment for using commonly available collated screws, on-demand push and drive system (no need to hold the trigger), electronic cut-off, precision depth control, user-serviceable magazine, and EC TEC brushless motor, the DWC is built to make hard work less hard on you. Quiet, efficient, and accurate, for faster installs with less fatigue.
Accuracy: Sink screws consistently and precisely (to 1/256”) with mechanical and electronic depth control with automatic cut-off to prevent overdriven fasteners saving material as well as time in re-work to achieve quality results.
Efficiency: With motor speed of 4,500 RPM, coupled with the auto-feed magazine using collated screws, makes fast work of hanging sheets while the impulse-drive functionality provides exceptional battery life.
What we say: Festool is continuing to expand beyond its woodworking heritage into more jobsite applications and bringing the ergonomics and quality they’re known for with them. For a drywall screw gun to get our attention, it has to have more than just a magazine for collated screws. The Festool DWC 18 brings some impressive features to the table. Starting with the EC TEC brushless motor, it’s incredibly efficient. Internal tests showed more than 5,000 screws driven on their compact battery. At the same time, the precision of the tool is a crazy-fine 1/256 of an inch. It also has an on-demand push and drive system that eliminates the need for you to hold down the trigger and keeps the motor from running the entire time you’re using it.
Price: $495.00
For more information, click here.
Finalist
- Milwaukee M18 FUEL Drywall Screw Gun
Winner – Cordless Magnetic Drill Press
Milwaukee M18 FUEL 1-1/2″ Magnetic Drill
What they said: For years, this market has been shifting to more compact magnetic drills, but no one has been able to deliver a solution for the user who has limited access to power, drills vertically or overhead, and regularly encounters thin metal. By utilizing Milwaukee’s M18 FUEL technology, we are able to address these issues and deliver the performance and run-time that is expected by most corded magnetic drill users, while eliminating the cord and maximizing productivity.
With most magnetic drills, cutting accessories are held in place with two set screws that need to be tightened down with a wrench and often get lost or stripped out, leaving the tool unusable. Both drills are equipped with a ¾” Weldon quick-change chuck, making accessory changes fast and easy. They also come packaged with a ¾” Weldon to ½” Chuck adapter, and the ability to adjust the height of the motor head, tool-free. This provides users the ability to switch from annular cutters to twist bits, faster and easier.
What we say: The Milwaukee M18 Fuel Magnetic Drill Press is one of those tools that reminds me just how far lithium-ion technology has come along. The fact that you can drill forty 13/16 in. holes in steel on one battery charge (more with the 9.0 amp hour battery) is impressive enough to stand on its own. However, additional features make it even better—like a permanent magnetic base that doesn’t lose holding power no matter the charge status. Or how about quick change Weldon chucks that make this the portable magnetic drill you want to have above and beyond the fact that it’s cordless.
Price: $2,199.00
For more information, click here.
Winner – 12V Impact Drivers
Ridgid R8224K 12V Palm Impact ScrewDriver Kit
What they said: RIDGID introduces the new 12-Volt Palm Impact Screwdriver. This tool is first to market with an all new Push-to-Drive feature. This feature allows for pressure sensitive variable speed control without the use of a trigger. Simply apply more pressure for high-speed applications and apply less pressure for slower applications. This tool is perfect for any contractor wanting to drive screws in places that your drill won’t fit like hard to reach areas, tight spaces, awkward angles, and overhead work.
What we say: The Ridgid 12V Palm Impact Screwdriver is simply a ton of fun to use. While awkward looking at first, the pressure sensitive speed/torque control quickly becomes intuitive. It’s really compact and takes on the rough profile of a right angle impact at just half the length. While it earns its living in hard to reach and awkward areas, you’ll find yourself reaching for it on many light duty screwing applications—just because you can.
Price: $99.00
For more information, click here.
Winner – 18V Impact Drivers
Ridgid R86036K STEALTH FORCE Brushless 18V 3-Speed Pulse Driver
What they said: RIDGID introduces the STEALTH FORCE Brushless 18-Volt 3-Speed Pulse Driver. With innovative STEALTH FORCE technology this tool uses a unique hydraulic oil pulse mechanism to make all jobs easier. The RIDGID Pulse Driver is up to 2X faster than standard impact drivers and HALF the noise. This tool is great for construction areas where noise levels are an issue and speed of completion is a must. Save time and save your ears. The Brushless motor technology gives you more power, more run-time, and a longer motor life compared to brushed motors. This tool is backed by the RIDGID Lifetime Service Agreement. FREE Batteries. FREE Parts. FREE Service. FOR LIFE upon registration within 90 days of purchase.
What we say: Ridgid wasn’t only the first to bring an oil impulse driver to the market, they’ve also took the lead as the most capable. The Stealth Force Pulse Driver is crazy-quiet and fast, especially on screwdriving tasks. Where other pulse drivers are sticking with basic screwdriving, Ridgid is able to handle tough lag screws and other socket applications. When it comes to tough tasks, and it’s time to put the compact tools away, the Ridgid Stealth Force is what you want in your hand.
Price: $199.00
For more information, click here.
Finalist
- Makita XDT12M 18V LXT Brushless Quick-Shift Mode 4-sp. Impact Driver
Winner – Portable Work Lights
DeWalt DCL070 20V MAX* Bluetooth LED Large Area Light
What they said: The inconvenience of poorly lit jobsites and the hassles of extra-long extension cords are in the past with the introduction of the 20V MAX* Bluetooth LED Large Area Light. Whether using it as a cordless light or charger, it helps to illuminate work areas with a maximum of 7,000 lumens. With AC/DC capability, the light runs off any DEWALT 20V MAX* or FLEXVOLT Battery and can also charge most DEWALT slide pack batteries when plugged into AC power. Batteries are protected during charging via a door lock option, providing security with versatility. The light features instant on/off with no warm-up, dimming as low as 500 lumens, right/left light head and is stackable with a wheel option for convenient storage. Users can connect multiple Large Area Lights for added illumination or to use the light to power a corded tool in a remote setting away from an outlet. The 20V MAX* Bluetooth LED Large Area Light (DCL070) works in conjunction with the expanded DEWALT Tool Connect System allowing it to be controlled from a user’s Bluetooth enabled device.
What we say: This 7,000 lumens room-filling LED light runs on DeWalt 20V Max batteries or their new FlexVolt platform. It also charges those batteries when you plug it in. You can operate it from your phone. Seriously, what’s not to like here? DeWalt’s push into peripheral jobsite tools that both run on and charge batteries is something users have been asking for. Pass through outlets also allow the lights to be daisy chained in larger areas or allow corded power tools to be operated. In a surprise move—DeWalt even designed the housing so that the lights are stackable.
Price: $499.00
For more information, click here.
Finalist
- Ridgid R8694221B GEN5X 18V Hybrid Folding Panel Light
Winner – Cordless Planers
DeWalt DCP580B 20V MAX* Brushless Planer
What they said: The 20V MAX* Brushless Planer features a brushless motor for maximum efficiency and that helps to maintain speed under load. With a 3-1/4” width capacity with 3/32” adjustments, a rabbet capacity of 5/64”, and up to 15,000 RPM, this tool offers premium performance for a variety of woodworking applications. Ergonomically designed, the 20V MAX* Brushless Planer has a comfortable grip and is well-balanced for horizontal and vertical planing. The planer weighs 6.7lbs and operates off of the DEWALT 20V MAX* battery system. Lightweight and cordless, the planer can be easily transported around the jobsite without the hassle of a cord. The 20V MAX* Brushless Planer is designed to withstand tough jobsite conditions and is built to withstand tough applications. The 20V MAX* Brushless Planer offers a twin blade drum, a carbide reversible blade. The tool also comes with an edge guide and features convenient onboard key and blade storage and one chamfer groove. Additionally, the planer features a dust port that is compatible with the DEWALT universal dust connection system (sold separately).
What we say: With all the power and innovation going on around cordless tools, the planer is one of those products that we’re still scratching our heads as to why it’s taken so long to get a couple on the scene. Not settling for a simple design, DeWalt packed their brushless motor inside to turn the twin drum with reversible carbide blade. While it’s a niche tool, carpenters should be pretty excited to cut the cord and still keep the interior clean by attaching the integrated dust port to their collection system.
Price: $199.00
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Polishers
Milwaukee M18 FUEL 7″ Variable Speed Polisher
What they said: Polishers play a crucial role in the automotive detailing industry. Because cordless options today do not have the power to complete large polishing projects, users are hindered by tools with cords that they have to wrestle with. Frequently they’ll need to throw these cords over their shoulders and adjust those cords to keep from dragging along the side of the car and creating more scratches. This constant distraction can be a huge productivity-killer. By incorporating our three exclusive innovations-the POWERSTATE brushless motor, REDLITHIUM battery pack, and REDLINK PLUS Intelligence-our new M18 FUEL 7” Variable Speed Polisher allows for maximum productivity and delivers game-changing performance that rivals similar corded polishers.
What we say: Polishers draw a lot of power and have been tough to bring in to the automotive world. A cordless polisher needs enough run-time to be practical for automotive professionals. The Milwaukee M18 Fuel polisher can polish or buff a full-size sedan using a 5.0 amp hour battery. Of course it only gets better with the new 9.0 amp hour pack. Milwaukee set out to tackle three major concerns with polishers: speed control, balance, and weight. They seem to have nailed it with a variable speed dial/trigger combination, excellent ergonomics, and dropping more than a pound of weight compared to some corded models.
Price: $449.00
For more information, click here.
Winner – Jobsite Radios
Ridgid R84087 18V Jobsite Radio with Bluetooth Wireless Technology
What they said: RIDGID introduces the GEN5X 18V Jobsite Radio with Bluetooth Wireless Technology. This radio comes with great features to help you rock out on the jobsite. It’s equipped with a weather resistant housing, USB Charging and Aux-in connection, and can be run off of a RIDGID 18V battery or AC power cord. The RIDGID Radio App is what separates this radio from the competition. The Radio App allows you to record preset voice alarms, use the radio as a PA system, keeps and changes preset stations, controls bass and treble settings, checks RIDGID battery life, allows easy tool registration, and more. Download the RIDGID Radio App in the app store to see for yourself.
What we say: Ridgid took their popular Jobsite Radio and changed up the look a little bit while adding several new features. You still have a protective roll cage with auxiliary and USB ports and dual mode power supply (AC or 18V battery). Now, however, they’ve added Bluetooth connectivity, which is almost a must-have feature these days. It’s the Ridgid RadioApp that really has us excited, however. Beyond just control of the radio station and volume, you can dial in your bass and treble settings, change your presets, use it as a loudspeaker system, and even set voice alarms. The jobsite is getting smarter, and fortunately the jobsite radio is following suit!
Price: $129.00
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Routers
Ridgid R86044B/ GEN5X Brushless 18V Compact Router
What they said: RIDGID introduces the GEN5X Brushless 18V Compact Router. The Brushless motor provides more power, longer life, and more run-time than a brushed motor. Go completely cordless for all routing jobs with the RIDGID Brushless 18V Compact Router. Cut up to 400 ft of laminate on a single 5Ah battery charge (not included). The variable speed dial allows you to easily adjust the speed to the application, and the micro adjust dial allows you to adjust the depth to the specific application. This router also utilizes SoftStart Technology to ensure there are no gouges on the work surface upon start up. This tool is backed by the RIDGID Lifetime Service agreement. Register within 90 days of purchase and receive FREE Parts and FREE Service for life.
What we say: The cordless router is a category that hasn’t really taken off with the mainstream Pro brands yet, and this isn’t the first time Ridgid has emerged to lead the pack this year. They’ve set the initial bar and we’ll have to wait and see if anyone gives chase. Built on the foundation of the popular Ridgid trim router, this cordless model has common features like a variable speed dial, micro depth-of-cut dial, and soft start motor. Ridgid also put their Gen5X brushless motor inside to power it—an absolute must if this class is going to get attention from Pros.
Price: $119.00
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Band Saws
Metabo MBS 18 LTX 2.5 18V 2.5″ Band-saw
What they said: The MBS 18 LTX 2.5 is Metabo’s brand new 2.5″ cordless band saw. Safety is paramount at Metabo, therefore, It is the only band saw that features a brake, stopping the blade in under 1 second, and is delivered standard with blade protection guards. Its powerful motor allows the saw to go through all sorts of material with an excellent rate of cut. Naturally, the tool is compatible with all Metabo Ultra-M 18V batteries, including the latest LiHD (Lithium High Density).
What we say: Metabo’s cordless line is filling out well thanks to tools like their new 18V band saw. The really big deal is the addition of a brake. It shouldn’t be too much longer before the brake is standard for all Pro level cutting tools. It’s great to see companies like Metabo leading the way in bringing it to market. Beyond that, features like an LED work light, hanging hook, and ergonomically designed handle put it in the same class as other Pro brands.
Price: $229.00
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Circular Saws
DeWalt DCS575 60V MAX* 7-1/4″ Circular Saw
What they said: Fully utilizing the benefits of the DEWALT FLEXVOLT battery is the 60V MAX* 7-1/4” Circular Saw (DCS575). The saw’s 7-1/4” blade and brushless motor technology offers extreme power, runtime, and durability. With a 2-9/16” depth of cut capacity, it can make up to 339 cuts per charge in 2×4 SPF lumber on a single charge with one FLEXVOLT battery. It is ideal for use in a wide variety of professional applications and with common construction materials such as oriented strand board (OSB), plywood, hardwoods, and flooring. The DCS575 Circular Saw features an electronic brake that stops the blade after the trigger is released and a lower guard design which improves performance for bevel cuts and cutting shim. The DCS575 is designed with a bright LED light that helps provide line-of-cut visibility, a bevel scale with 57° capacity including stops at 45° and 22.5°, and a durable high grade aluminum base for smooth cuts.
What we say: The DeWalt FlexVolt Circular Saw is one of the tools where we wondered whether there is really a need to make it 60V. Full size cordless circular saws have been out for a while now and several models cut really well to be honest. It’s not until you actually put this saw through a stressful cut that you realize how much you really baby a cordless saw compared to a corded model. That power gap is virtually erased with this FlexVolt model. DeWalt has definitely set the bar on power, and we can’t help but think they’ve ushered in a new era for cordless power saws.
Price: $379.00
For more information, click here.
Finalists
Winner – Cordless Miter Saws
DeWalt DHS790 120V MAX* 12″ Sliding Compound Miter Saw
What they said: DEWALT’s 120V MAX* 12” Sliding Compound Miter Saw delivers the capacity, accuracy, portability, ease of use, and durability that professionals demand. Power and flexibility for cutting framing lumber, stair tread, hardwood and crown molding are achieved either corded for unlimited runtime or cordless for portability and convenience. Using two FLEXVOLT Batteries, the 120V Max* 12” Sliding Compound Miter Saw is capable of delivering up to 289 cross cuts in 3-1/4” base molding without having to find an outlet or use extension cords. The saw has a maximum horizontal cross-cut capacity of 16”, vertical cut capacity of 6-3/4”, and nested crown cut capacity of 7-1/2”, along with the integrated CUTLINE Blade Positioning System and stainless steel adjustable miter detent plate, the saw delivers the capacity and accuracy professionals demand. The aluminum base and trunnion provide rigidity and strength for the sliding function to maintain accuracy and performance cut after cut.
What we say: It wasn’t long ago that thoughts of a legitimately Pro level cordless miter saw were nothing more than dreams. Then DeWalt came out with their 20V Max 7-1/4” miter saw, and other brands started showing up on the scene as well. With FlexVolt technology, DeWalt now has a full size, fully featured, and full power 120V miter saw that can be run completely cordless. Better yet, you also have the option of running it on AC power with the adapter included in the kit. Time to wake up—this is no longer a dream!
Price: $799.00
For more information, click here.
Finalists
- Milwaukee M18 FUEL 10” Dual Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw
- Ridgid R48607K 18V 7-1/4 in. Cordless Brushless Dual Bevel Sliding Miter Saw
Winner – Cordless Reciprocating Saws
Milwaukee M18 FUEL SAWZALL with ONE-KEY
What they said: It’s been nearly 65 years since Milwaukee first invented the recip saw, and since that time the SAWZALL continues to lead the industry in durability and performance. With the renowned reputation and history of the SAWZALL, coupled with Milwaukee’s expertise and leadership in cordless technology, we’re proud to deliver a new SAWZALL that gives users unbridled power and, through ONE-KEY, the ability to harness that performance for an even better experience. It’s the SAWZALL like never seen before.
What we say: Milwaukee One-Key tools changed the game when they started rolling out thanks mainly to the tool customization that is now available. But is that really a big deal for a reciprocating saw? Don’t you just want to cut as fast as you can? Not necessarily. There are some cutting tasks, particularly in thick metal or stainless, when slowing down actually speeds up the cut. It also extends the life of the blade. Among the many features that One-Key brings to the table, that customization along with pre-defined material/blade setups makes the One-Key Sawzall a giant leap forward for the class. Manufacturers often make the case that a new tool will “make” contractors money. Used properly, this one is almost guaranteed to.
Price: $449.00
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Table Saws
DeWalt DCS7485 60V MAX* 8-1/4″ Table Saw
What they said: DEWALT’s 60V MAX* 8-1/4” Table Saw’s brushless motor provides runtime, durability, and power and covers 95% of ripping applications on a variety of materials. Using one FLEXVOLT Battery, the Table Saw can rip up to 302 linear feet per charge of 3/4″ OSB material on a single charge. With a maximum rip capacity of 24” on the right side of the blade and a maximum rip capacity of 12” on the left side, the saw can easily handle full 4×8’ sheets of material. The telescoping rack and pinion rip fence adjustment allows fast, smooth, and precise adjustments while maintaining front to rear parallelism of the fence to the blade.
The saw also incorporates feet for stability and a roll cage for durability and protection of the tool. At only 45 lbs. (without a battery) and with the blade guard assembly and all other components stored onboard, the Table Saw is easy to transport using the integrated side handle.
What we say: The cordless table saw is one of those mile marker tools that lets us know we’ve arrived at a new era in power tool history. DeWalt packed some of our favorite features like their rack and pinion fence extension system into the saw. Most tradesmen will be able to run a majority of jobsite cuts using its 8-1/4” blade. And of course, that’s all on one FlexVolt battery. The only question left is when we’ll see the first 10-inch model.
Price: $499.00
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Vacuums
Makita XCV05Z 18V X2 LXT (36V) Brushless 1/2 Gallon Backpack Dry Vacuum w/HEPA Filter
What they said: The Makita 18V X2 LXT Lithium-Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless 1/2 Gallon HEPA Filter Backpack Dry Vacuum is a powerful and portable clean-up solution that eliminates extension cords that trail corded backpack vacuums. It’s also a powerful and portable dust extraction solution for contractors that bridges the gap between low-capacity on-board dust extraction systems and larger capacity but less portable wheeled canister job site vacuums.
The XCV05Z is ideal for cleaning crews in janitorial/sanitation (“jan-san”), as well as for construction applications when used as part of a dust extraction system . The XCV05Z is powered by two 18V Lithium-Ion batteries for 36V power and performance but without leaving the 18V LXT battery platform. The efficient BL Brushless Motor generates 53 CFM of suction and 28.5” of static water lift for fast clean-ups and improved dust extraction, with no cord to pull along or get in the way.
What we say: When it comes to jobsite and shop cleanup, dust extractors leave a lot to be desired. Sure, you can get the vacuum attachments and roll them around the shop, stopping to unplug it and find a new outlet to work from. Makita’s new backpack vacuum cuts the cord while still offering the power to effectively clean up the area before calling it a day. And really, anything that can keep you from having to bend or be on your hands and knees is a win in our book. Take that in consideration with the powerful Makita 18V platform and integrated HEPA filter, and you’re left with zero excuses.
Price: $289.99
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